Rail operator invites applications from organisations across its network until July 17
Long-distance train operator CrossCountry has opened its annual Customer and Communities Improvement Fund (CCIF) and Biodiversity Improvement Projects (BIP) fund for 2026, making £100,000 available to support local initiatives across its network.
The funding is split between £60,000 for customer and community projects and £40,000 for biodiversity improvement, with applications open until July 17.
Projects must demonstrate clear and measurable social and environmental benefits.
Jessica Lockwood, head of sustainability at CrossCountry, said: “We’re particularly keen to hear from organisations that are delivering projects aligned to our Sustainability Strategy, delivering lasting social value in the communities we serve.
“If you have a project that could make a real difference, we encourage you to apply.”
Proven track record of community impact
Since 2024, the two funds combined have distributed £267,000 to initiatives across the UK.
Previous beneficiaries include Breaking Barriers, a refugee support charity, whose deputy CEO Andrew Fordham said the funding “enables us to provide tailored employment, education and skills programmes that make a real difference to the lives of the people we work with.”
Cambridge-based hip-hop arts organisation SIN Cru used 2025 BIP funding to develop a nature trail connecting its community garden to North Cambridge Station.
Co-director James Therobot said the experience had been “transformational,” adding that he was excited to see the 2026 fund “open up new possibilities for more organisations to make lasting, place-based impact.”
CrossCountry published its latest Social Value report in April, recording a £184 million contribution to communities and the environment.
Applications can be made via an online form at crosscountrytrains.co.uk.
